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Sunday, November 30, 2014

Greenville- On November 27, 2014 at approximately 4:22 a.m. Darke County Deputies, along with New Madison Fire and Tri-Village Rescue, was dispatched to SR121 just north of US36 W reference to a single vehicle roll over accident.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2007 Toyota Yaris, driven by Monica C. Jones (24) of Palestine, OH, was southbound on SR121 just north of US36 when Jones' vehicle went off the right side of the roadway. It appears Jones over corrected trying to get back on the road and then went off the left side of the road, striking a guardrail. Jones was treated at the scene By Tri-Village Rescue and was transported to Wayne Hospital. Jones was then transferred to Miami Valley Hospital by Miami Valley's MICU. Jones' condition is unknown at this.

It appears alcohol may have been a factor in the accident. This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

Garst Museum’s annual Holiday Open House will be held on Sunday, December 7 from 1:00 p.m, to 4:00 p.m. The public is cordially invited to attend. Everyone can tour the museum and the National Annie Oakley Center at no chargeon this one afternoon.

Highlights of the afternoon include seasonal music, light refreshments and beautiful decorations. Also artifacts from the museum’s Christmas collection will be used for decorating. Plan to do a little Christmas shopping in the Museum Store, as there will be a 20% discount on all non-consignment items.

The museum features a number of beautifully-decorated Christmas trees illustrating the theme “The Bounty of Darke County.” Trees were decorated by the following groups: The Wildflower Garden Club, the Junior Butterflies Garden Club, the Sun and Fun Garden Club, the Ladybug Garden Club, the Wood Sprite Garden Club, the Garden Girls Garden Club, the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and the Ft. Greeneville Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Plan to stop by and enjoy the fun, shop , and also take advantage of the FREE admission to tour the museum.

The Darke County Historical Society (the Garst Museum) has as its mission to collect, preserve, exhibit, study, and interpret materials relating to the history and culture of Darke County, Ohio as part of the development of the crossroads of the American experience. Permanent exhibitions of national significance include the National Annie Oakley Center, the Treaty of Greenville, Lowell Thomas, and Ohio Native Americans.

Fifty years ago in Ohio, the rural school districts looked to the big cities for the best practices in education. Today, big cities are looking to rural areas for clues on how to make their schools more successful. They are focused on increasing graduation rates and students that are ready for college and the workforce. In rural Ohio a common denominator in our successful schools is strong families and a good work ethic that comes with our agrarian lifestyle.

This past spring and into the summer, operations began in Cincinnati and Cleveland that focused on recruitment for students in the 4-H and FFA programs. This is all part of a pilot project funded in the state budget that we have been discussing for the past year and a half.

Beginning this fall, both Cleveland East Tech High School and the James N. Gamble Montessori High School in Cincinnati established FFA chapters and began high school courses on Agricultural Food Production and Food Science.

For the younger children, George Washington Carver Elementary (Cleveland) and Rothenberg Preparatory Academy (Cincinnati) are providing an introduction to agriculture by involving every elementary student in those buildings exposure to agricultural topics via 4-H in the classroom.

Greenville City School's Jim Anderson was elected to the position of Vice Chairman at NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) board of trustees at the fall board meeting. The board meeting was held in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on November 17th through the 20th. Anderson has been a trustee for the past six years.

NATEF develops training standards and accredits automotive programs throughout the nation. This organization works closely with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and the Automotive Industry to assure education is staying current with technology as vehicles evolve.

Mr. Anderson will assume his role January, 2015 and will transition to Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the 2016 year.

Reid Urgent Care of Eaton will open on Dec. 1 at 109B E. Washington-Jackson Road -- just east of the dental offices of Dr. Craig Hewitt and south of the Wal-Mart shopping area. The “after hours” practice offers urgent care, as well as physicals, vaccinations, flu shots, onsite X-ray and lab services. Mark Striebel, D.O., and West Foster, N.P.-C., provide care for patients with:

Muscle sprains and strains

Cuts and burns

Colds, flu and other illnesses

Urinary tract, ear and sinus infections

Hours are Monday-Friday from 3 p.m.-11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk-ins are accepted seven days a week. The phone number is (937) 456-2155.

“This center serves a need in the Eaton community for after-hours care,” said Connie Locker, assistant executive director of Reid Physician Associates. “Urgent care can be far more cost effective than an emergency department visit, and our facility provides extensive services for the convenience of patients.”

In related news, Reid Specialty Physicians has moved from the Washington-Jackson Road facility to 550 Hallmark Drive just off highway 35, joining the family medicine practice of Reid physicians Christian Koch, M.D., and Norman Sooy, M.D. The name of the new, combined practice is Reid Eaton Family and Specialty Care. Also located in the Hallmark Drive facility is Reid Rehab and massage therapy.

The practices are accepting new patients. To make an appointment with Dr. Koch or Dr. Sooy, please call (937) 456-4181. For a specialty care appointment (cardiology, obstetrics/gynecology, oncology, orthopedics, psychiatry, surgery), please call (937) 456-4400. Appointments at Reid Rehab are available by calling (937) 456-1195.

The Friends of the Greenville Public Library’s annual Christmas Open House will be held on Saturday December 6th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. As always there will be a table full of amazing cookies along with punch and coffee. Santa & Mrs. Clause will be in attendance for free picture-taking with the kids and live music will add to the festive atmosphere.

On Friday December 5th, during Library hours of 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturday December 6th, from 9 am to 4 pm, the Friends will be offering an assortment of books that will make affordable gifts or additions to your own library.

They have specially selected the very nicest of our books to place in the sale including Christmas themed books both fiction and nonfiction, including holiday cookbooks. These will be newer, very clean books, with dust jackets and no library markings. All items are available to you by a donation. The sale will be on the Library’s lower level close to the Circulation Desk.

All the funds from this sale benefit Greenville Public Library. The Friends pay for, or contribute to, special programs and equipment outside of the Library’s budget. Please take advantage of this unique shopping event that also supports your library and is kind to your wallet – also enjoy the beautiful decorations and holiday spirit.

This Holiday Season, join Darke County Parks for an evening stroll through our Winter Wonderland at Shawnee Prairie Preserve! On Saturday, December 6th from 6-9pm, there will be over 400 luminaries lighting your way along the wooded trails, allowing for a peaceful winter’s night in nature. As you hike along the illuminated trails towards the Log House and Blacksmith Shop, you can enjoy the crisp air, bright stars and perhaps the light crunch of snow. This early December evening will also provide a full moon to light our way.

In the Log House, the fire will be warm and there will be the opportunity to enjoy pioneer music of Christmas’ past as you relax in the comforts of the 18th century. Holiday crafts for all ages will be available upstairs in the Log House and in the Nature Center to fuel the memories of this staff-favorite event. The Gift Shop will be open throughout the event, offering a chance to discover a selection of unique gifts or that perfect holiday stocking stuffer.

Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland is a FREE event and is the perfect opportunity for families to celebrate the winter season and to start a new tradition. Don’t forget to bring a votive candle or two as a donation for next year’s path. Shawnee Prairie is located on 502 West, approximately 1 mile outside of Greenville. Call if you need directions around the detour. For more information on all of the programs offered by the Darke County Parks, visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org or call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

On November 24th the Tri-Village MVCTC FFA had three teams compete in the County Parliamentary Procedure Contest. Two Teams of First Year Members competed in the Greenhand Contest and received Gold Ratings. Members on the Greenhand Team 1 were Brittany Brewer, Kara Hollinger, Jazmine Hileman, Ian Bailey, Kailei Sheperd, Thadd Carden, Jakob Frech, and Tanner Jones. Members of Greenhand Team 2 were Kaitlyn Howard, Rachel Watern, Autaum Moore, Shelby Frech, Josh Hollinger, Ashley Rutherford, Mia Middleton, and Cohen Nelson. The Varsity Team who received a Gold Rating consisted of Trent Laux, Gabe Watern, Riley Hollinger, Wesley Murphy, Alisha Hollinger, Keith Hunt, Josh Wiford, and Grant Flory.

The Parliamentary Procedure CDE is an assessment of students’ abilities to participate effectively in a business meeting or other group decision making situation. During the contest the students complete the Opening Ceremonies of a FFA Meeting and then demonstrate 6 different parliamentary procedure abilities. They are evaluated on the correct use of the rules, quality of discussion, and delivery.

Edison Community College’s Board of Trustees has selected Academic Search, Inc. as the firm to lead the College through its next presidential search. The national search firm will implement a proven search strategy in which they will guide Edison toward a successful hiring decision.

Built upon years of experience, Academic Search, Inc. will implement a search strategy, which will align the College to select a new president who will begin 2015 fiscal year. The entire strategy is comprised of five steps including, organizing the search, analyzing institutional needs, recruiting a strong and inclusive candidate pool, candidate evaluation and interviews, and facilitation of the appointment.

Most recently, consultants Eric W. Richtmyer and Jerry Israel were on campus to meet with internal and external stakeholders to gain insight about Edison and its distinctive attributes. From the information gathered in the meeting, the consultants were able to construct a profile for the ideal candidate.

The application period for the position of president is currently open through mid-January. As applications are submitted, the Presidential Search Committee of the Board of Trustees and the Advisory Stakeholder Committee will begin reviewing submissions.

The next step will include a further detailed review of the candidates in which the hiring committees involved will narrow their selection to 8-10 semifinalists. Interviews will then be conducted throughout February and on-campus interviews will take place in March. The Edison Board of Trustees will appoint the selected presidential candidate in April 2015.

The Presidential Search Committee of the Board of Trustees includes four current standing Board Members and the Advisory Stakeholder Committee consists of seventeen staff, faculty, students, and other key constituents.

For further information regarding the hiring process, contact Linda Peltier, Vice President of Strategic Human Resources at 937-778-7802 or lpeltier@edisonohio.edu.

Darke County Parks is seeking a full time Naturalist / Outdoor Educator. Goals of the Park District are centered on the conservation and preservation of natural and cultural areas in Darke County to be used for educational programs for a wide variety of audiences including schools, youth groups and the general public. Duties include participation in the full range of tasks associated with natural-history programming and interpretation, maintenance and operation of a Nature Education Center and parklands within the mission statement and consistent with the strategic plan of the Park District.

This is a full time position. Candidate must be flexible to work weekends, evenings, periodic Holidays, long hours of work in a wide range of weather conditions. All assigned duties are under the direct supervision of the Chief Naturalist.

Interested candidates should email cover letter, application and resume to: director@darkeccountyparks.org. Applications and Job Description are available on the Park District Website www.darkecountyparks.org. Applications will not be accepted through the USPS mail service, Fed Ex or UPS. For questions, call 937.548.0165 and ask to speak to the Director.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Greenville- On November 27, 2014 at 6:24 p.m. Darke County 911 received a call from a subject reporting that his vehicle was just stolen in Union City, IN and that the vehicle was eastbound on SR571 from Union City. Darke County Deputies responded to the area to attempt to locate the vehicle. The vehicle was reported as being a black Kia with an Indiana registration. Darke County Deputies located the vehicle driving eastbound on SR571 coming in to the city limits of Greenville. Darke County Deputies followed the vehicle until it was confirmed by the Randolph County Indiana Sheriff's Office that the vehicle was stolen and a request was made to stop and hold the vehicle. Darke County Deputies initiated a traffic stop on the stolen vehicle on Sycamore St at W Main St. in Greenville. The vehicle initially complied to the order to stop,but then fled from deputies westbound on W. Main St. The pursuit of the vehicle went south on Chestnut St and continued southbound on SR121. The stolen vehicle continued south on SR121 to New Madison where the stolen vehicle slowed down and a passenger, Heather Kinnison (23) of Union City,Ohio bailed out of the vehicle. The stolen vehicle continued southbound through New Madison.

When the stolen vehicle negotiated a curve in Braffetsville, the suspect lost control of the vehicle and spun out, but gained control of the vehicle and headed back north on SR121 and then turned east on SR722. The suspect continued east on SR722 to Preble Co. Butler Twshp Rd where the suspect went off the right side of the road and struck a tree.

New Madison Fire and Tri-Village rescue were immediately dispatched to the scene. The suspect, Justin Lithgow (30) of Union City, IN, was treated at the scene by Tri-Village and was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by Life Flight where he is listed in stable condition. Speeds during the pursuit reached 100-110 MPH. Miami CountySheriff's Office accident reconstruction team was requested to the scene to investigate the accident.

The case remains under investigation by the Miami County Sheriff's Office and the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

Charges are being filed against Lithgow for Receiving Stolen Property and further charges will be pending the investigation.

November is becoming a memory, Thanksgiving has come and gone, and old man winter is approaching. Halloween starts the official Holiday season, but to most of us, Thanksgiving is the time it really starts. We hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving, and we hope the family and friends you shared it with also have a Merry Christmas, which is just around the corner!

November is usually busy in the Commissioner’s office. We are starting to wrap up projects from this year, and planning for next year has begun. This year, we got quite a bit accomplished as to fixing and repairing buildings and equipment that was in desperate need. The Wagner Avenue Government Center, the old Visitation House, and of course all the work at the Sheriff’s office, was work that needed to be done in order to make the buildings useful for a long time. The Courthouse and other buildings also received some attention this year, so hopefully next year we do not have to do as much major repair and things replace as this year. As of now, we are finalizing the purchase of the remaining property around the Darke County Airport, and hope to have it wrapped up very shortly. This was another major accomplishment, and could not have happened without the kindness and co-operation of the Spiller family. Thank you to them for their understanding and commitment to Darke County all these past years.

November also starts the Appropriation part of the calendar year. Most offices are working on their projected budgets for next year, and in early December, we will meet with them to discuss their needs for 2015. We are always proud to say that our Department heads and elected officials do a tremendous job of holding the line on their budget requests. Most of the offices do as much as they possibly can, and only ask for more when something gets mandated from higher up, or some new equipment is needed. When you see our Elected Officials and Department Heads, please thank them for a job well done with little appreciation.

Darke County continues to shine in the Economic Arena, our unemployment rate continues to drop, our efforts in workforce development are succeeding and growing, and all of the new expansion that is taking place seems to be on schedule. JAFE glass is nearing completion, and will have a grand opening ceremony sometime in December. Congratulations to Randy O’Dell and the group at JAFE for your continued growth and commitment to Darke County. The High School renovation, the new school location, Whirlpool, Koenig’s Equipment, and Reid Hospital are also proceeding, along with the new Good Samaritan Health Center facility on Sweitzer Street, all soon becoming realities.

Thanks to all of our great companies and partners for their continued support and belief that this is the place to grow.

Christmas is just around the corner, and following that comes the New Year.

Won’t you try and make one of our open meetings this year? We meet every Monday and Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Commissioner’s office, located at 520 South Broadway in Greenville, just south of the Courthouse. Hope to see you there!

- The Darke County Commissioners

Thursday, November 27, 2014

The Board of Directors and Staff at the Darke County United Way would like to thank the Kroger associates for donating 100 snack pack bags with nutritious food to United Way for children in need. United Way gave these fun snack bags filled with fruit, granola bars, and pudding cups to their partner agency Grace Resurrection Community Center. The GRCC used these donations for their Back Pack program helping hungry children throughout the county. The Back Pack program is a program at the local school districts in Darke County, which provides food to chronically hungry children over the weekend, between school weeks. For more information about the Back Pack Program or GRCC please contact Ann Ditmer, Back Pack coordinator, or Sharon Fellers, executive director at 548-2595. Thank you to Kroger and their staff for this generous donation.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 201 South Broadway, Greenville, is presenting an organ concert by their church organist, Terry Cassel, with flute solos by Kim Bohler on Sunday, December 7th at 7:00 P.M. in the church. This candlelight concert will include a collection of Christmas classics as well as a wide selection of classical organ compositions. The public is invited to attend this free concert and celebrate the Advent season. Come and enjoy the magnificent music, festive decorations and beautiful stained glass windows. Refreshments will be served following the concert.

Call the church at 937.548.5575 for more information.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

You're probably familiar with the annual tradition of the President pardoning a turkey every year at Thanksgiving, saving it from the delicious fate that so many others meet. This year, the honor of raising and providing this turkey was bestowed upon locally based Cooper Farms.

COO of Cooper Farms and Chairman of the National Turkey Federation Gary Cooper joined Alex Mikos on WTGR's Community Ties program to discuss the process of raising the Presidential Turkey, as well as walks them through the process of traveling to Washington DC and the actual pardoning ceremony.

The Wayne HealthCare 2014 Great American Smokeout event on November 20th gave local smokers the chance to join other across the U.S. in taking steps to start living a tobacco free life. Whether you stopped by the awareness table to make a pledge to quit or made a self commitment you’re taking important steps toward a healthier life.

The observance was started by the American Cancer Society in the 1970’s and has since helped change the nation’s perception of tobacco use. The day has been used to draw awareness to the health risks associated with tobacco and secondhand smoke, even leading to many state and local regulations.

Individuals who talked with our pulmonary rehabilitation staff about programs or reasons to quit using tobacco were encouraged to make a pledge. Individuals were also entered into our “Quit Cold Turkey” drawing to win a free turkey for Thanksgiving.

“It is our goal every year during the month of November to make our community more aware of COPD and encourage our community to stop smoking, even for just one day,” said Linda Fridley, pulmonary rehabilitation specialist at Wayne HealthCare.

The Darke County Civic Theater will be holding auditions for their upcoming winter production. The auditions will be held at The Boys and Girls Club on Broadway in Greenville. If you are interested in trying out, you can show up anytime between 6 and 8pm. There is no preparation required, as they will be having cold readings from the script.

This production will be a melodrama that will be presented at Paws Bingo Hall on Saturday, February 28, 2015. The melodrama has a large cast and consists of actors age 7 and up. If you or someone you know has ever wanted to act, now is the time to try out. The Civic Theater is currently seeking new members to join there group.

Are you looking for some great Christmas gifts? Check out EUM Christian Preschool 's Holiday Scholastic Book Fair at EUM’s Downtown Campus, located at 111 Devor Street in Greenville, Ohio.

Books are a great educational and enjoyable gift for any child. Consider looking at our selection of books and choosing the ones that will make the children on your gift list smile.

The Scholastic Book Fair will be open Wednesday, December 10 from 8:45 am to 3:15 pm; Thursday, December 11 from 8:45 am to12:00 pm; Friday, December 12 from 8:30 am to 3:15 pm; and Saturday, December 13 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. All profits benefit the preschool. For more information, contact Elaine Snyder at 548-3211 ext. 210.

Jeff Harper is Lead Pastor at EUM Church. The traditional worship service is Sunday 9:45 am at the Downtown Campus at 111 Devor Street and the contemporary worship services are Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 9:00, 10:30, and 11:59 am at the Worship Center located at 1451 Sater Street (corner of Sater and Sebring-Warner Road) in Greenville, OH. Kidmunity Children’s Ministry is available for kids age birth through grade six at the 6:30 pm, 9:00, 10:30 and 11:59 am services. The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses the offices and preschool. For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

GREENVILLE - The Greenville High School Vocal Music Christmas Concert will be held on Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00 pm at St. Clair Memorial Hall.

Reserve and general admission seats are available this year. Tickets for reserved seating may be purchased at the Greenville High School ticket booth, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. from December 9 through the performance date. The price of the tickets is $5 for presale and $6 at the door. Tickets for students are also available for $4 each. There are no refunds or exchanges. Tickets may also be reserved by contacting Katie Netzley (evenings until 9 p.m.), 547-9659.

Additional sale locations are being added this year for convenience. The following locations will sell the general admission tickets only beginning December 2 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm: Tim’s Muffler Mart at 521 W. Third Street; The Flower Patch at 104 Rhoades Avenue and the Darke County Welcome Center at 421 S. Broadway next to KitchenAid Experience. General admission tickets for seating in the wings can be purchased in advance at these locations are $4 each.

The choirs are accompanied by Judy Mills, and directed by Chelsea Whirledge.

The 2014 Vocal Music Christmas Concert will begin with all the choirs joining together in "Deck the Rooftop".

The Choraliers will sing "A Charlie Brown Christmas Medley."

Girl's Glee will perform "FelizNavidad," and "Grown Up Christmas List."

Girl's Glee and Choraliers will join together to perform "Where are You Christmas?"

The Wavaires will sing "Underneath the Tree", "What Christmas Means to Me" and "Do You Want to Build a Snowman.”

The Concert Choir will perform "Lully, Lullay", "What Child is This" and "Sing We All Noel."

The parlor of Garst Museum has a festive holiday flare due to the efforts of Wildflower Garden Club.

The beautiful 10 foot tree that stands each year during the Christmas season in the Victorian style front room of Garst, better known as the parlor, was again decorated by some of the members of the garden club on November 20th. The theme this year was, The Bounty of Darke County which the club members carried out with unique decorations, which included handmade, harvested, hunted and store bought items.

White lights provides the backdrop for strung wooden and painted cranberries, bunches as well as single apples and pears add red to the tree. The tree also has boughs dripping with pine cones that appear to have snow on them and sparkle with glitter. Along with the cones are bunches of Baby Indian Corn hung in glittered bunches. A few bird’s nests can also be found among the branches. Dried hydrangea blooms which have been spray painted pink and burgundy are also arranged all over the tree. The surprising added touch which is the hunted part of the bounty, is wild turkey feathers supplied by one of our members who actually bagged the turkey with a bow and arrow a few years ago. She also added a deer skin which she obtained from a deer she had downed from a hunting trip. It serves as a tree skirt for the fruit, berry, flowered and feathered tree. The tree is topped off with a huge burlap bow and streamers also of burlap. We wanted to keep the tree looking natural and feature the recourses found in Darke County. Apples, corn, pine cones, pears, wild turkeys and deer. Not sure about the cranberries. Also beautiful hydrangea bushes adorn our yards in summer which we used for added color and aiding us to stay true to our motto of growing and showing. They added just the right touch to a garden club tree.

When finished we all made the comment that it is the most beautiful tree we have ever done. This is the same comment we make after trimming our tree in the Parlor each year.

We truly enjoy getting together to make the decorations and decorating the tree.
Each year the tree is done differently according to the theme upon which the museum decides. This really challenges us to make it interesting and beautiful and depict as best we can the theme.

On Sunday November 23, 2014 at approximately 12:38 PM, Darke County Sheriff Deputies along with Gettysburg Rescue, Bradford Fire Dept. and CareFlight were dispatched to the 6600 block of Smith Rd on a report of a private property injury accident involving a 4-wheeler ATV that had been flipped in a field.

Investigation revealed a Polaris 500 Scrambler 4-wheeler ATV was being operated by a 14 year old female from Bradford, OH. and was riding the ATV through a family owned field and lost control after riding in a grass waterway ejecting her from the ATV and then the ATV rolled on top of her. She was taken to Miami Valley Hospital aboard Careflight for non-life threatening injuries, and she was not wearing a helmet at the time.

This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

Friday, November 28th 6:00-8:00 p.m. is the kick off Preview Sale for early purchases at the Arcanum Historical Society. The bazaar opens again All Day on Saturday, November 29, 9:00 - 6:00 p.m. The annual Christmas Bazaar has a surplus and over stock of one-of-a-kind Christmas Decorations in every theme from pastels to a Red, White and Blue Christmas. Christmas trees, primitive, decorated and plain, table toppers, short and tall will be available for your choice. New this year will be the Cookie Walk, buy your cookies by the pound, plus more ready to use or freeze for the holidays baked goodies. As always, the historical society guarantees the lowest prices this shopping season. Come early and stay late for browsing and shopping.

Englewood, Ohio – The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) annual Sophomore Open House is scheduled for Thursday, December 4, from 4:30-7 p.m. The school will be open for sophomores and their parents to tour all three buildings, meet instructors, and learn more about the 40+ career and technical programs that MVCTC offers for high school juniors and seniors. A complimentary spaghetti dinner will be served in the Student Activity Center.

December 2, 3, and 4 are the scheduled Sophomore Career Days at MVCTC. Sophomores from the MVCTC 27 partner school districts have the chance to visit MVCTC for a day and experience two career technical programs. The goal is to help students decide which career technical program they may want to pursue for their junior and senior year in high school.

MVCTC is located in Clayton and serves 27 area high schools in five southwestern Ohio counties (Montgomery, Warren, Preble, Darke, and Miami). The career technical programs at MVCTC are designed to teach students skills relevant to their career goals, while maintaining challenging academic classes and building relationships with classmates, instructors, and business leaders to help them be successful. The opportunities available at MVCTC prepare students for the workforce and college and allow them to graduate with thousands of dollars toward their college education.

For more information on the opportunities offered at MVCTC, please visit www.mvctc.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced $6,302,675 in new federal funds to support Head Start and Early Head Start programs run by Council on Rural Services, a non-profit education organization serving Auglaize, Champaign, Darke, Greene, Logan, Miami, Preble, Shelby and Van Wert Counties. The funds were awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“This is excellent news for West-Central Ohio families and their children,” Brown said. “Programs like Head Start help to ensure that children have the skills necessary to succeed in elementary school and beyond.”

Head Start is a federal program that provides young children from low-income families with programming to prepare them for school. Early Head Start focuses on children ages birth to three. These programs, including health, nutrition, and social services, are designed to ensure their healthy cognitive, social, and emotional development. More information on Head Start and Early Head Start can be found here.

There is something invigorating about crisp winter morning air! Join a naturalist as we hike the trails of Shawnee Prairie (4267 State Route 502 West) each and every Tuesday morning. We will focus on birds, tree ID, winter animal tracks and anything else that catches our eye! Hikes will begin at the winter start time of 9:00am in December, January and February. Meet in the Nature Center parking lot dressed for the weather. If you have any questions, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org Don’t forget your binoculars!

On 11-24-2014 Darke County Deputies, along with Greenville Township Fire and Greenville Area Rescue, were dispatched to US RT 127 and Horatio Harris Creek Road in reference to an injury accident. Responding units were advised flames were showing from one of the vehicles.

Preliminary investigation has revealed a 2014 Freightliner, driven by Charles P. Baughman, Ansonia, was heading north and attempting a left turn onto Horatio Harris Creek Road, turning into the path of a southbound 1998 GMC Suburban, driven by James Hines, Greenville. Hines drove across the centerline to avoid contact, striking a northbound 2008 Peterbilt, driven by Daniel Leonard Jr, of Celina. Hines’ vehicle caught on fire and was eventually extinguished by Greenville Township Fire.

All parties were checked by Greenville Area Rescue and released at the scene. This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff’s Office.

COLUMBUS—State Representative Richard Adams (R-Troy) recently received the 2014 Paul E. Gillmor Lifetime Public Service Award. He was honored November 13th during the Ohio Bankers’ League Annual Meeting.

The award, established in 2006, is not granted annually, but rather is given to select individuals who are especially meritorious, often at the end of their careers. It is named after Ohio Congressman Paul Gillmor, who served the residents of the 5th District for 18 years until his death in 2007.

“I was acquainted with Paul Gillmor when he served as member and President of the Ohio Senate,” Adams said. “Mr. Gillmor later served for the United States Congress. He was a hard worker and represented his constituents well. This causes me to be thankful for the recognition of the award named in his honor. I have always attempted to emanate his qualities in my service to citizens who entrusted me with responsibility.”

Rep. Adams is currently in his third term in the Ohio House of Representatives and serves the 80th District, which includes Miami County and portions of Darke County. He will be retiring from the legislature at the end of the year. A former two-term Miami County Commissioner, Adams also has a long history in education, banking, and public service. Most notably, he served as chairman of the National Association of Community College Trustees Board and as president of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges Board. He was a trustee for Edison Community College for 18 years, acting as chairman for three years.

For his distinguished work in the community and as an educator, Representative Adams has received many awards, including the Ohio Outstanding Administrator Award from the Ohio Vocational Association and the Citizenship Award for Distinguished Service to Humanity from The Ohio State Alumni Association. He was named a member of Distinguished Alumni by The Ohio State University College of Agriculture and named a Distinguished Citizen of Troy by the Troy Area Chamber of Commerce.

He was honored with the Outstanding Community College Trustee in the United States and Canada Award by the Association of Community College Trustees. Recently, he received the 2014 Legislator of the Year from The Ohio Mortgage Bankers Association. The Richard N. Adams Educational Service Award has also been named in his honor from the Ohio Association of Community Colleges.

The Medicare open enrollment process, which continues through Dec. 7, can be confusing and overwhelming, according to an insurance expert who works with health care providers and consumers to try to clarify the issues.

Jim Richmond, with Managed Care Partners, explained the difference between original Medicare – which he likened to Classic Coke – and Medicare Advantage plans, which are actually managed by private insurers and replace rather than supplement Original Medicare.

Richmond said there are two basic “roads” to get to Medicare coverage – Original Medicare, with Parts A, B, and D; or Medicare Advantage plans, or Part C. “Original Medicare provides coverage directly to you,” he said, noting that it is made up of Part A and/or Part B. “Medicare Advantage plans are provided by private insurance companies and the costs, coverage and rules may be different than Original Medicare.”

He said Medicare Advantage plans “fully replace” original Medicare, though consumers sometimes confuse them with “supplemental.” He said the companies who offer these plans have contracts with Medicare to provide the coverage.

Richmond cited numerous examples of options for Medicare Advantage or Medicare supplement plans – sometimes called “Medigap” – and pointed out that an Original Medicare plan with a supplement policy is often the best choice for those who can budget the additional premiums. He used the example of regularly changing the oil filter in a car – the expense is more up front, but it can reduce costs down the road. That’s how he described the difference between Medigap policies – which can cost more in premiums up front – or a Medicare Advantage plan, which often can have lower premiums but can mean a lot more out-of-pocket expense when the consumer actually uses the plan.

Mrs. Clause holds a little one in her lap as Brenda Ballengee prepares to photograph him with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause at the Library Open House. This year;s Open House is December 6th and the photos of children with Mr. and Mrs. Clause are free.

Hundreds of cookies, punch and even Library appropriate bookworms will be served to patrons and guests at the annual Greenville Public Library Open House on Saturday, December 6 from 10 am to 2 pm, sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Mr. and Mrs. Clause will be the highlight of the event for the little folk who can tell Santa about wish lists and have a photo taken with the jolly old elf and his wife. Brenda Ballengee will be on hand to take free photos.

Entertaining guests with many holiday melodies and other compositions will be Nancy Jackson, playing her flute, and Alex Vehre with his violin. Tours of our wonderful Library and its many facets will also be available.

Each year, the Friends of the Greenville Public Library celebrate our Library, this gem in downtown Greenville, with an open house as the closing event of its calendar year. Authors Nights at Montage are in the planning stages already, as the January, February, March and April events that Friends sponsor.

This year, FOL will sponsor a mini used book sale on Friday, December 5th and during the Open House. This, in addition to the second floor on-going used book sale, helps to fund the many programs and projects for the Library to which FOL contributes.

Friends of the Greenville Public Library is a group of volunteers dedicated to enriching, promoting and sponsoring literacy efforts in our community and thus, its goal is the excellence of our Library. For information about membership or FOL events, call 548-1916.

Darke County United Way hosted the Annual Live United Softball Classic in October at Stebbins Field. Five teams came out to play in the coed softball tournament to support the local United Way’s Education Initiatives.

Save 2nd Base was the winning team, with Hot Rods and Harleys as the runner-up. The United Way also welcomed teams from Greenville Federal, Greenville National Bank and PolyOne Corporation.

The event raised over $1,300, and Greenville Federal’s team also did a special jeans and t-shirt day fundraiser at the bank leading up to the softball event, donating an extra $120 to the event.

The Darke County United Way would like to thank the following people and businesses for their support and donations to make this event a success including: all of our teams and players, Stebbins Field crew and our umpires, our committee of Melissa Mansfield, Debby Folkerth, Corey Eagle and Brian Beam, McDonalds, Doug Shields Investments, Oscreen, Spirit Medical Transport, Taco Bell, Burger King, Columbus Crew, Cincinnati Zoo, Columbus Blue Jackets, Cincinnati Bengals, Scene 75, YMCA, University of Dayton, Columbus Zoo, Wright State University, COSI, Xavier University, Cincinnati Reds, Holiday World, and JT’s Brew and Grill.

The Darke County United Way is coming close to wrapping up the fall campaign in mid-December. The campaign goal of $375,000 is a hefty goal and the board is very thankful for so many wonderful individuals and businesses in this community that are working together to help Darke County United Way meet this goal. If you would like to donate please send donations to Darke County United Way, PO Box 716, Greenville, OH 45331, or donate online at www.darkecountyunitedway.org. “Your gift is important to the mission of Darke County residents working to increase the capacity to care for one another. These gifts stay in Darke County and go to helping neighbors in their time of need, whether it be health related, educational based to strengthen and build the future leaders of Darke County, or providing income stability - especially during this time, when families are in need of food, clothing and heat. Your gift provides hope for the future. There is no greater gift than to help another in need,” states Lauren Henry, Executive Director of United Way. Donations go to help residents in Darke County through the following programs: Education - Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Club, Council on Rural Services (CORS) Gateway Youth Programs, CORS-Achievement Center for Educational Success, 4-H, Boy Scouts, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Stuff a Bus, Income Stability programs - Red Cross, Community Action Partnership (CAP) Emergency Homeless Shelter, Supportive Housing, Community Unity, YMCA Financial Assistance, FAME, FISH Choice Pantry, Grace Resurrection Community Center, Bridge the Gap, & Health Programs - Cancer Association of Darke County, Catholic Social Services, CAP Medical and General Senior Transportation, Community Services for Deaf FSA, CORS Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, Midwest Ohio Recovery and Wellness, Rehabilitation Center for Neurological Development, SafeHaven, Inc., State of the Heart Hospice Bereavement programs, and Familywize Prescription Drug Discount Program. Community Fund recipients include: Scout Camperships, Salute to Military Families, Camp BEARable, and Greenville Girls Softball Association.

Join Darke County Park District as we participate in Project FeederWatch, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30-11:30am. This is a unique ‘Citizen Science’ program organized by Cornell University which studies winter bird populations. Your observations may be used in scientific journals and shared with ornithologists and bird lovers nationwide. No matter your birding level, beginner or expert, we need YOUR help!

We’ll gather inside the Nature Center at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 St. Rt. 502 West) and count the birds that visit our bird-feeding station. Only available for a portion of the count time? That’s fine! Just drop in anytime on Tuesday or Wednesday from 9:30am-11:30am. And did we mention we’ll have warm drinks available?

For more information on Project FeederWatch or if you have any questions, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

After a year-long contest and many photo submissions, the 2014 Darke County Parks photo contest has come to fruition. The finalists have been selected and a 2015 calendar is complete. Talented photographers set out to the 12 Darke County Park areas and snapped photos during various seasons and all weather conditions. Judging was extremely difficult as there is great talent in Darke County! Along with photos from local amateur photographers, special events and important meeting dates are featured. The calendars are now for sale for $10.00 in the Gift Shop at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 State Route 502 West). All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Darke County Parks. For more information, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

This Holiday Season, join Darke County Parks for an evening stroll through our Winter Wonderland at Shawnee Prairie Preserve! On Saturday, December 6th from 6-9pm, there will be over 400 luminaries lighting your way along the wooded trails, allowing for a peaceful winter’s night in nature. As you hike along the illuminated trails towards the Log House and Blacksmith Shop, you can enjoy the crisp air, bright stars and perhaps the light crunch of snow. This early December evening will also provide a full moon to light our way.

In the Log House, the fire will be warm and there will be the opportunity to enjoy pioneer music of Christmas’ past as you relax in the comforts of the 18th century. Holiday crafts for all ages will be available upstairs in the Log House and in the Nature Center to fuel the memories of this staff-favorite event. The Gift Shop will be open throughout the event, offering a chance to discover a selection of unique gifts or that perfect holiday stocking stuffer.

Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland is a FREE event and is the perfect opportunity for families to celebrate the winter season and to start a new tradition. Don’t forget to bring a votive candle or two as a donation for next year’s path. Shawnee Prairie is located on 502 West, approximately 1 mile outside of Greenville. Call if you need directions around the detour. For more information on all of the programs offered by the Darke County Parks, visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org or call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Reid Hospital provided the following list of Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers) related to their new building project in Greenville...

The Reid Hospital & Health Care Services ongoing project in Greenville to build a Medical Office Building to house specialists is moving well on schedule.

As a way to keep community members informed, we have developed a list of question and answers about the project:

What is Reid building in Greenville?
We are building a $10 million, 34,000 square foot medical office building to house Reid physicians who provide specialty care to the region.Where is it?
The Greenville Medical Office Building is at Meeker/Jackson and Katzenberger roads next to Family Health.Why is Reid putting a facility in Greenville?
This new building will house in most cases specialty practices for doctors who have already been caring for Greenville area residents in other locations for many years, including Bethel Cardiology and Reid Orthopedics. We want to provide better facilities for our patients in the area and continue to offer specialty care that complements what is already offered by other providers, such as Wayne HealthCare.Won’t your services compete with the local hospital and physician practices?
No. Our goal is to provide services that Wayne does not provide so that residents can continue to use their great local hospital and get care from Reid that is not offered there. We offer specialists to whom Greenville doctors already refer their patients for care.When will the building be completed?
Construction is on target for completion by the end of March 2015.Are you using local contractors in the project?
About 91 percent of the construction is being done by local and regional companies as a way to make sure the project helps the county and regional economy.Will your facility offer emergency care?
No. Our Medical Office Building will provide a central place for specialty care including orthopedics, heart and vascular, neurology, rheumatology, urology, ENT and psychiatric services.Will it include beds to provide overnight care?
No. It is a specialty practice facility, not a hospital or emergency care facility.Is Wayne HealthCare and Family Health part of the project?
While the project is funded solely by Reid, we consider them partners in providing health care to the community. We are in regular communication about what we are doing and what community needs are. Our goal is to be long-term partners in providing care to the people these great providers also serve. We look forward to providing specialty care to compliment the services they are not currently providing in Darke County.Will there be a pharmacy in the new building?
No. These services are already available in the community.Will the facility offer services such as MRI, CT scans or ultrasound?
No. These services are also already readily available in the county.

GREENVILLE, Ohio- Did you know downtown Greenville is home to over 50 small businesses? Small, independent businesses who add character to our community. Mom & Pop shops that are unique and one-of-a-kind.

In 2010, American Express founded Small Business Saturday to help businesses with their most pressing need — getting more customers. The day encourages people to shop at small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. The single day has grown into a powerful movement, and more people are taking part than ever before. This year, the big day is Saturday, November 29th.

To help celebrate the day, Main Street Greenville has created a schedule full of fun activities for shoppers to enjoy when visiting and supporting downtown businesses. Sponsored by Second National Bank, the day includes the following:

Shop and dine at participating businesses to be entered into our Win the Window Conest! (see ad on page ??)

FREE Horse Carriage Rides downtown Greenville from 11 am - 3 pm

FREE Family Photo by Brittany Carol Photography from 2-4 pm on the steps of the Darke County Courthouse.

FREE Gift Wrapping at Readmore's Hallmark from 10 am - 6:30 pm

FREE Balloons for the Kids!

The first 250 shoppers who visit Main Street Greenville's office at the NEW Darke County Welcome Center and show us their receipts, will receive a Shop Small Canvas Bag! (421 S. Broadway)

After shopping, visit Main Street Greenville's office for the opportunity to WIN even more prizes! (421 S. Broadway)

Visit with Santa at The Coffee Pot from 1-3 pm

Main Street Greenville is a non-profit organization that supports downtown Greenville, Ohio through stimulating and supporting revitalization efforts, historic preservation and economic growth. Learn more about the organization on their website, www.mainstreetgreenville.org, or follow them on Facebook. You can contact them at info@mainstreetgreenville.org or 937-548-4998.

The Darke County United Way is in mid-campaign and has brought in 30% of goal through October. Fun events have been held throughout the community during the last few months including Stuff a Bus, Runway & Rhythm, 25th Annual Golf Outing, Lead the Way Tractor Cruise, Chicken BBQ, and Live United Softball Classic. “The Community does a wonderful job of supporting residents in their time of need throughout Darke County, and it is an honor to run this community’s campaign each year,” states Lauren Henry, executive director. Lauren goes on to add, “Many individuals and businesses have made donations and pledges toward the campaign, and many are currently working hard finishing special campaigns to support our mission of increasing the capacity to take care of one another in Darke County with health and human service organizations. With the community’s support, our 27 local programs are able to serve over 20,000 residents each year, well over 30% of our population in the county. Can you imagine? Imagine having parents that are incarcerated and trying to break that cycle and graduate high school with plans for college. Imagine becoming very ill and struggling to make ends meet by living in a tent and finding safe shelter to pay for medical needs. You can make the difference in these individuals’ lives. These are just a couple situations that we have faced for clients this year in our office at United Way and there are thousands more stories. We are looking for more donations, and if you are interested in donating to our campaign, please send donations to Darke County United Way, PO Box 716, Greenville, Ohio. No matter the size of a donation, it will make a positive difference in the life of another, and your gift will make a difference for Darke County.”

This summer the Stuff a Bus program donated close to $6,000 in school supplies to the local school districts for children in need. Ansonia, Arcanum, Bradford, Franklin Monroe, Greenville, Mississinawa Valley, Tri Village, Versailles, and the Board of Developmental Disabilities Anthony Wayne schools were all recipients. Special thanks go out from the United Way Board of Directors to the community, the Blue Angels 4-H group, Modern Mothers, and RSVP/Council on Rural Services volunteers for help with collecting and sorting these supplies and use of the school bus. Special drop off sites also helped promote this event throughout the month of July, and the United Way thanks the numerous businesses that collected as well as the large collection day sites located at JCPenney, Walmart, and John’s IGA. “All children should have the tools to begin the school year right, and aid in their success for their futures in our school systems. This will make them better learners and leaders for our future Darke County community,” states Lauren.

Last year, Darke County United Way served 2,984 children promoting proactive programs to build a positive future for the youth and future leaders of Darke County in the Education Initiative. Over 3,500 residents were provided with aid for health related issues, many long-term diseases and cancer, as well as proactive education, chronic disease classes, CPR, and prescription needs. In the Income Stability initiative over 15,000 have been served, many provided with food including distribution of over 130,000lbs of food by the local food pantries. Chronically hungry children have been served with the backpack programs throughout the county at schools. Over $22,000 in medical reimbursement has been given out for cancer patients. 450 children are enrolled in the early childhood literacy program -Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Over 2,000 meals were served to those with mental illness, as well as many classes provided for those trying to transition back into the workforce. These are a few of many community impact statistics going on each year in Darke County with the community’s support to Darke County United Way. The goal is $375,000. The need in the community is close to $500,000. To learn more about Darke County United Way and see a full list of the local non-profit programs benefiting from this campaign, visit www.darkecountyunitedway.org. The office is located at 207 E Fourth Street in Greenville.

Dede Wissman and Vicky Stickel sort books to maintainquality book, CD and DVD offerings on the shelves of theFriends of the Greenville Public Library Used Book Salearea of the Library. The FOL used books, located in thecomputer area of the Library, would make great gifts. Donations for the books go toward FOL sponsored programs for the Library.

As the Marines are looking for a few good men, The Friends of the Greenville Public Library are looking for a few (or many) good books.

The FOL on-going book sale, on the second floor of the Greenville Public Library, just in back of the computer area, holds dozens of books, CD’s and DVD’s that can be had for a voluntary donation. The variety of topics is wide enough to meet most interests and is ever changing.

Donations of books, CD’s, and DVD’s in good condition are always appreciated. Presently, the Friends book sale coordinators are hoping for donation or more Christmas books, romance paperbacks, small children’s books, cookbooks, CD’s and DVD’s. Their goal is to keep a well-balanced selection so that patrons will be able to take materials that fit their interests.

Many patrons are not only repeat users of the on-going sale, but recycle their favorites by donating them back to the Friends. Bring good used materials into the Library to help the Friends of the Library in its support of GPL programs and needs.

Providing for this summer”s family reading program was one of the many examples of FOL working hand in hand with the Library in its effort to provide programs for families and the community.

For more information on how to be involved in Friends of the Greenville Public Library or questions about donations, call 937.548.1916.

Don Myers began having problems with his heart when he was serving as senior pastor of Greenville, Ohio, Congregational Christian Church. As much as he loved being in ministry, some aspects of the work seemed to aggravate his condition. “My heart tended to go out of rhythm when I felt emotional, such as when I’d officiate at a special wedding, or when I was doing a lot of speaking,” Myers said. “It would beat erratically, and afterward my legs would be very weak, and I’d feel dizzy and worn out. Sometimes I’d forget where I was, as if I had had a mini-stroke.”

Myers was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, and began seeing Robert Fleming, M.D., a Reid cardiologist, for care. He retired from the pulpit in 2001, but his condition worsened, even with medication. “I was starting to feel desperate—my wife and I are very active, and this heart issue was a real problem!” explained Myers, 78. “A lot of people I knew had undergone surgery in Dayton for a-fib, and they were really not happy with the outcome. I just kept putting it off.”

Finally, Myers’ daughter Kathy, who works as a nurse at Reid, told him that he had to see Dr. Vuy Li, an electrophysiologist at Reid, to talk about radiofrequency ablation. This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to “deactivate” nerve endings that are causing the heart to misfire. “Dr. Fleming had already talked to me about the procedure, and Kathy said Dr. Li’s patients were having a lot of success,” Myers explained. “I knew it was time, so I made an appointment. Dr. Li was so knowledgeable and confident that ablation would help me. I decided to go ahead with it, and was I glad I did.”

The procedure took place in February 2014. “In the eight months since, I have traveled, taught Sunday School and officiated at weddings and funerals—and I haven’t had one episode of a-fib,” Myers said. “My heart has held out beautifully. It’s gotten to the point where I don’t even think about it anymore.”

Myers and his wife, Dodie, walk every day, raise golden retrievers and travel frequently for family get-togethers. One of Myers favorite activities is to make Amish wood toys, which he displays at craft shows. “I just thank God for Dr. Li,” he said. “His expertise made it possible for me and Dodie to enjoy life again.”

MVCTC Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps students perform reveille on the MVCTC campus in honor of Veterans Day.

Clayton, Ohio – The Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) held its annual observance of Veterans Day starting on Friday, November 11, 2014. Staff and students across the school contributed to a meaningful and moving day. Among the activities were:

A reveille performed by the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps

Posters honoring veterans on the MVCTC staff

Messages regarding Veterans Day sent by e-mail and on the video sign board

Social Studies teacher Robin Speer, worked with her students to research, create, and distribute red paper poppies for staff in honor of Veterans Day

Academics Supervisor, Mr. Eric Dolan organized all events scheduled at MVCTC on Veterans Day. This included inviting veterans from Brookhaven Nursing Home to have lunch at the Culinary Café and to tour the school. The MVCTC staff does a wonderful job of honoring our veterans and getting the entire school involved in observing Veterans Day.

The MVCTC Criminal Justice senior class participated in the “Feed the Veterans” event held at Rob’s Restaurant in Brookville on November 11.

The MVCTC Criminal Justice senior class participated in the “Feed the Veterans” event held at Rob’s Restaurant in Brookville on November 11.

For over 40-years, MVCTC has been providing career technical education for 27 partner school districts encompassing five counties in Southwest Ohio. MVCTC is dedicated to providing in-demand workforce training for youth, adults, and organizations in the Miami Valley.

At least two insurance companies are offering insurance plans in the ACA marketplace in 2015 that are contracted with Reid and Reid physicians, said Chris Knight, Reid Vice President/Chief Financial Officer. “This is great news for our communities, since in 2014 we were not included in the marketplace plans offered in our region. We are pleased that our residents now have options for coverage through the marketplace.”

United Healthcare and Assurant Health are both listing Reid in their ACA plans for 2015, based on existing contracts they already have with Reid and Reid providers.

“We are pleased to be participating in the Marketplace Exchange with these two partners that have entered into our community with very workable plans,” said Craig Kinyon, Reid President/CEO. “This is a welcome addition to many families in our community and is another helpful solution for those that do not have affordable options for health care insurance coverage. In addition, Reid has increased our resources to the uninsured in assisting them in qualifying for traditional Medicaid, the Marketplace Exchange and Reid Patient Assistance. In 2013, Reid provided $65.1 million in write-offs for the uninsured, and we are projecting that this amount will be $64 million in 2014,” Kinyon said. In 2014, Marketplace Exchange plans didn’t include Reid Hospital and Reid Physician Associates.

The sign-up event in Lingle Hall will be five days ahead of the first window for getting a plan in time to allow coverage starting Jan. 1, Knight said. It will include Reid navigators, local insurance agents and representatives of the companies offering marketplace plans in the region.

Knight said Reid’s financial services team will also be working with local insurance agents and others in the community to coordinate information and sign-up sessions for community members who may qualify for Indiana’s expanded Healthy Indiana Plan, once the plan obtains anticipated federal approval as a replacement for the ACA Medicaid expansion that was adopted by some states.

“Meanwhile, I encourage people who need to find coverage to talk to their family insurance agent, to one of Reid’s navigators, or attend our event,” Knight said. Reid navigators can be reached by calling (765) 935-8591, (765) 983-3310 or (765) 983-3036.

Friday, November 21, 2014

A carriage travels down historic South Broadway during last year’s event.

GREENVILLE, Ohio- Don’t miss the last First Friday event of 2014! Main Street Greenville invites you to December's First Friday Event – A Christmas Night, scheduled for the evening of Friday, December 5th.

Sponsored by GTI (Greenville Technology, Inc.), this event will feature many fun activities in the downtown district for children of all ages to enjoy! “We hope many families will join us during December’s First Friday,” said Amber Garrett, Executive Director for Main Street Greenville. “Downtown has such a gorgeous ambiance. From the lights to the carriage rides, it will be a great way to get you in the Christmas spirit!”

Downtown businesses open late for shopping and dining!

Shop at participating businesses to earn entries in our Win the Window Contest!

FREE Horse Carriage Rides located in front of the Courthouse from 6-9 pm

Christmas at the Manor - located at St. Clair Manor from 5-9 pm (224 E. 3rd Street) from 5-9 pm

Live Music by the Green de Villes - located at Montage Cafe (527 S. Broadway) from 6:30-9:30 pm

Live Music by Joseph Helfrich - located at The Coffee Pot (537 S. Broadway, Suite 101) from 7-9 pm

The Grinch will be strolling downtown Greenville – Presented by Readmore’s Hallmark

FREE Gift Wrapping - located at Pamela’s Intimates (wrapping by First United Methodist Church) from 6-9 pm

Main Street Greenville is a non-profit organization that supports downtown Greenville, Ohio through stimulating and supporting revitalization efforts, historic preservation and economic growth. Learn more about the organization on their website, www.mainstreetgreenville.org, or follow them on Facebook. You can contact them at info@mainstreetgreenville.org or 937-548-4998.

Students put on goggles, mixed chemicals and watched as they changed colors in a session titled, “Light, Color, Chemistry” at Edison’s annual We Are IT! event for young women.

Upper Valley Career Center students take advantageof the selfie station at Edison’s annual We Are IT! event.

More than 200 students ranging from sixth to eleventh grade engaged in a day of learning and fun at Edison Community College on Friday, November 14, for the ninth annual “We Are IT!” event. The daylong program is designed to help boost interest of young women in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

“This year was the best year yet and next year we’ll celebrate our 10 year anniversary,” said Patti Ross, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. “The girls loved the selfie station and took so many fun pictures throughout the day. Next year, we’re planning to invite all of our alumni back for our anniversary – over 2,000 girls have been ‘We Are IT! girls.”

The event began with a keynote address from Jen Fritz, a retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant and an instructor in the School of Information Technology at the University of Cincinnati. Fritz spoke to the ladies about how although her career in the Marine Corps prepared her for many aspects of life; she still needed formal training to pursue a career in information technology. She touched on the fact that life doesn’t always go as planned and encouraged the group to be persistent in reaching for their dreams.

Each of the girls chose three breakout sessions from a total of seventeen different sessions offered. Topics of breakout sessions ranged from diagnostic laboratory medicine and physics to digital photo editing and robotics. During lunch, students had the opportunity to network with area STEM professionals.

In addition to giving students a look at what they could do for a living somewhere down the road, many of the day’s sessions focused on topics that are relevant in their daily lives. A session titled, “What You See Isn’t Always What You Get” showed participants the ins and outs of image altering and how marketers use these techniques to sell products.

To wrap up the day, students were encouraged to participate in an essay contest. The theme of the essay asked students to describe how they best embodied the characteristics of the event’s mascot, “Mitse” (Math, Information Technology, Science, Engineering). A total of 96 students entered the essay contest with the first place winner receiving an iPad.

To further reinforce the use of technology, a new selfie station was made available to participants. Students had the opportunity to use their smartphones to take pictures and share with fellow participants using #WeAreIT14. At the end of the day, a selfie was selected at random to receive an iPod.

Joe Bailey chose to come to Rest Haven after hip surgery for their reputation as a community leader in quality care, high ratings, as well as successful rehab outcomes. Joe also chose Rest Haven due to a strong personal connection. When Rest Haven was first established by Elma Moss; Mr. Bailey served on the advisory board, became an investor at the time, and served as President of the Board for a term. He was instrumental in the expansion of Rest Haven prior to Vancrest’s purchase.

Joe said, “Rest Haven has a first class therapy department. All of the staff is determined and know what they are doing. I noticed staff seemed to enjoy what they do too; take care of people. I’m very proud Rest Haven has continued to pride itself in quality care, like Elma did when she started it all. I know she would be very proud too.”

After several weeks of therapy Joe Bailey was able to return home filled with confidence, strength, and excited to be able to get around without pain or discomfort. Then he supplement his rehab by doing out-patient therapy at Rest Haven. “I would recommend Rest Haven! If I had to go back to a nursing home for any reason I would choose Rest Haven again,” he said.

At Rest Haven it is evident we follow our mission,C.A.R.E. C. Customer Focused, residents, family, and community; A. Attitude, always display a positive attitude; R. Responsibility, each person takes responsibility for results; E. Empathy, display empathy to customers in all situations. At Rest Haven WE DELIVER on all aspects of our quality care to each and every person who walks through our doors. Stop in for a tour at 1096 N. Ohio Street, Greenville or visit our new website at www.vancrest.com.

Pottery by Julie Clark, Dionne Fleming and Loretta Wray plus jewelry created by Richmond, Indiana silversmith Terri Logan will be on display during the final “Art at the Mill” exhibit of this season which opens on Friday, December 5 and continues through December 31. The opening night reception will take place during Bear's Mill's annual Candlelight Open House on December 5 from 6 to 10 p.m.

“This exhibit is entitled 'Adorn,' because the ceramic artwork can adorn the home while the timeless jewelry adorns the body,” said Julie Clark, gallery coordinator for Bear's Mill. “In addition to offering unique pieces to adorn yourself or your home, this exhibit offers one-of-a-kind gifts that will be treasured long past the holiday season,” Ms. Clark explained.

Terri Logan earned a Masters degree in Art Therapy, uniting her love for her chosen career field, psychology, with her love for art and providing a professional career that utilized the arts in many forms. However, after 18 years as a psychotherapist, she decided to become a full-time artist; she describes this decision from a psychological perspective, saying that she makes jewelry because of the intimacy the function allows, and uses metal and stone because they are inherently strong materials with a rich historic value and intrinsic links to our civilization. Her work has garnered many awards and prestigious gallery placements.

Julie Clark has maintained a private pottery studio adjacent to Bear's Mill for 35 years. “Inspiration for my clay work comes from the history and beauty here, which I am honored to enjoy daily,” she said. Her pieces feature modern elements which are inspired by the historic site, pairing rustic and contemporary in appealing combinations that seem totally appropriate and natural.

In 1993, Dionne Fleming moved to Darke County, where she began working with Julie Clark in her studio. “Julie has taught me so many things about clay, firing, design, and form; and I continue to learn with her,” the Salt Lake City native stated. Dionne, who works full time at a job unrelated to art, says that she is drawn to natural shapes and surfaces, and hopes to continue her pursuit of the endless possibilities of ceramics. “Pottery is my creative outlet; it fills my soul,” she explained.

Loretta Wray says that she enjoys producing functional pieces that can be used on a daily basis. “I hope that when someone takes a piece of my pottery home, they will use it and enjoy it,” Loretta stated. The ceramic artist built her own salt/soda kiln on her small farm near New Castle, Indiana, where she pursues her dream of creating pottery that connects with people and with nature.

Artworks by Gary Hovey and Dan Knepper will remain in the Gallery at the Mill through November 30.

“Art At the Mill” receives financial support from Darke County Endowment for the Arts. Art exhibits are on view during regular Mill store hours, 11 a.m. till 5 p.m. daily. Historic Bear's Mill, owned and operated by Friends of Bear's Mill, a non-profit organization, is located at 6450 Arcanum-Bear's Mill Road about 5 miles east of Greenville. For more information, contact Bear's Mill at 937-548-5112 or www.bearsmill.com.

Left to right: Marilyn Emmons, Treasurer of Cancer Association of Darke County, Bob Gerling, Secretary of Fraternal Order of Eagles 2347, and Christine Lynn, Executive Director of Cancer Association of Darke County.

Versailles Eagles recently presented the Cancer Association of Darke County with a donation of $1,000. Earlier this year, they donated $3,000 to the organization, as well. The Eagles donate to many other community causes as well including Versailles Community Scholarship Fund, Center for Neurology Development, Versailles Area Historical Society, Children’s Shrine Hospital, Versailles Area Charily Foundation and many school functions.

The Cancer Association appreciates this generous gift and will use the monies to help Darke County patients battling cancer. The organization is overseen by a volunteer board that determines how donations are to be used, etc. The association is a 501c3 nonprofit recognized by the government. The only requirement to receive benefits is to reside in Darke County and have a confirmed diagnosis of cancer. The benefit period begins the day the office is contacted.

The association partners with United Way and is not affiliated with the American Cancer Society or Relay for Life.

There is always a need for volunteers, especially volunteer drivers.

If you would like to volunteer or make a donation, please contact Christine at the office 937-548-9960. Please send donations to Cancer Association of Darke County, PO Box 781, Greenville, OH 45331. If you have questions, feel free to call the office which is open on M-W-F from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please leave a detailed message if no answer and someone will return your call.

Reader Comments About DarkeJournal

Thanks to your wonderful “for sale” and “garage sale” section. I have used both successfully. Keep up the great reporting.

From someone who used the unclassifieds: "Thanks to DJ we rented [out] the house!"

We understand your site really has the best coverage for our county.

Darke Journal is a great website. We kept up with the weather and all the local news on a recent trip. Keep up the GREAT WORK.

Keep up the excellent work with the site. Its refreshing to have such a glowing forum for thought and info in the area!

I'm a huge fan of Darke Journal - thanks for providing this website/email information for the community.

I think we can all agree, this is the best site of its kind for Darke County by far.

Your web site has been a great advertising place for our programs ... we always receive lots of calls. Thanks for all you do.

Must say I think you have done a really great job with the site.

Your web site is such a benefit to the community.

......the journal ROCKS!!!!!

Thanks for all your help. Darke Journal is the number one source for Darke County community news.

I have truly enjoyed keeping up with the Darke County news, but the constant reporting on conservative causes is totally inappropriate.

Darke Journal is sure on top of everything.

I really appreciate you running and bumping the garage sale ad over the last few days. My son and I had a really successful sale, and your site was a big help in making that happen (many people told us that they heard about it through DJ).

I am a huge fan of your website. It brings more useful information than the newspaper does and even though I am attending college and am away from home, I still check out your website about once a day to keep up on local events.

I just love your website. It's better than any newspaper or TV program. Keep up the good work.

I like the DJ because it just gives the facts pure and simple. I also like to read what the readers think. You keep up the good work & you will grow!

I am so glad that I found this site. It is so nice to have such an upbeat & unbiased Darke County news. I look forward to checking it each day. I just found it this month. Plus, I can feel free to voice my concerns on issues. Great web site!

When I turn on my computer in the morning, I check the weather and Darke Journal before anything else. Thank you for the pix & info on this site. It's nice to know what's going on in our great Darke County.

You are doing a great service and this is a great media outlet!

It just gets better and better! Truly, the 'mix' is what makes it so good for all readers.

DJ = nice guy, but should relinquish his website duties.

This is a wonderful site! I am so glad there is a place in this community where people can voice their opinion about issues. In the past for many years this community seems to be run by so called political people with others hiding in the brush waiting to inform their leaders of those who disagree with an issue on hand, just so they can point them out and try to ruin their life. Again I am so glad finally, an average Joe can make an Anonymous posted opinion and not fear that they will be pointed at or looked down for stating how they feel. Thank you D. J.

It’s better than most of the media available in and around Darke County.

The web site has had steadily increasing viewership over the last year or two and, at least in my opinion, has become a major player in getting news and commentary to Darke Countians.